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Braces move teeth through the application of constant, gentle pressure over time. Here's how the process works:

    1.    Braces Components: Braces consist of brackets (attached to the teeth), archwires (that connect the brackets), and sometimes elastic bands. These components work together to apply pressure to the teeth.

    2.    Pressure on Teeth: When the archwire is adjusted, it applies pressure to the teeth. The brackets hold the archwire in place, and the wire is usually tightened during regular orthodontic visits.

    3.    Bone Remodeling: The constant pressure causes changes in the bone structure around the teeth. On the side of the tooth where pressure is applied, the bone begins to break down and reabsorb. On the opposite side, where there is less pressure, new bone starts to form, allowing the tooth to move into the desired position.

    4.    Slow and Gradual Movement: Teeth don't move instantly; it can take months or even years for them to shift into proper alignment. The gradual movement is important for the bone and tissues around the teeth to adapt to the changes.

    5.    Adjustments: Throughout the treatment, the orthodontist makes regular adjustments to the braces to ensure the pressure is applied correctly and that the teeth move toward their final position.

Ultimately, braces rely on slow, controlled movement, allowing the teeth and supporting structures (such as bone and gums) to adjust safely.

In orthodontics, IPR stands for Interproximal Reduction. It refers to a procedure where small amounts of enamel are gently removed from between the teeth to crate space. This is often done to help with alignment, improve the bite, or facilitate the movement of teeth during orthodontic treatment.

Here's why and how it's used:

Why IPR is performed:
1. Create Space: When there's crowding of teeth, IPR can create enough space for the teeth to align properly.
2. Improve Bite: It can help adjust the way the upper and lower teeth come together, improving occlusion.
3. Aesthetic Reasons: Sometimes, it's used to make the teeth appear straighter by reducing slight overlaps.

How it's done:
. Selective Shaping: The dentist or orthodontist uses specialized instruments to remove a small amount of enamel from the contact points between teeth (the areas where teeth touch each other.) The procedure is usually quick, painless, and minimally invasive.
. Safety: The amount of enamel removed is very small and typically doesn't affect the tooth's overall structure or strength.

IPR is often used as an alternative to extracting teeth in cases where extra space is needed for alignment, though the decision to use IPR depends on the individual patient's case.

Why do I have to wear rubber bands during treatment? 

Elastics, also known as rubber bands help improve the bite during treatment.

It is very important for patients to wear their rubber bands during treatment if they want to finish on time.  If one doesn't wear the rubber bands as instructed this will delay the treatment time.  The elastics, if needed, are important for a successful end result so it is imperative to follow all instructions given by Dr.Azizi.

How long does a patient have to wear rubber bands?

When a patient is instructed to wear elastics, Dr. Azizi will inform the patient if it has to be full or part time. If instructed to wear rubber bands full time they will wear rubber bands all day, only removing to eat and brush the teeth. When removing rubber bands, you will always replace with new ones.  Never use the old elastics as it loses elasticity over time. If a patient has to wear rubber bands part time they may only need to wear the rubber bands at home and night while sleeping. Whether it is needed to wear elastics full or part time, the elastics should ALWAYS be worn during sleep because there is a guarantee of at least eight hours of wear.   Elastics are also worn during activities including: sports, working out, running, etc. The only time one would need to remove the elastics, is if it is necessary to wear a mouth guard during sports. 

What happens if a patient runs out of rubber bands?

If a patient runs out of their rubber bands before the next scheduled appointment they can give the office a call. The office can either mail the elastics or the patient can always stop and pick up more. If the patient runs out quickly, they shouldn't be afraid to ask for two packs before leaving the appointment.

Patients who have questions or are confused as to how to wear rubber bands, can always stop by the office and can be shown again. We want our patients to wear their elastics correctly, so their bite is perfect.

 Ready to schedule a consultation?

Our office is eager to meet you and can't wait to discuss your orthodontic options.  If you are ready to start your smile journey with Azizi Orthodontics, give us a call. There are two convenient locations: Glenside-(215) 576-6414 and Ambler-(215) 646-9514.

Orthodontic treatment can be performed on patients who have dental implants, but there are specific considerations as well as limitations to consider. Here are some key points:

1. Type of Implants: If the dental implant is fully integrated and stable, orthodontic treatment may be possible. However, the type and location of the implant may affect how and if braces or other orthodontic appliances can be used. In most cases if there are implants, the orthodontist may suggest going with Invisalign instead of traditional braces.

2. Treatment Goals: The goals of the orthodontic treatment will determine the approach of tooth correction and alignment. If possible, the orthodontist will use braces or invisalign to detail and align the teeth. The doctor will also create a treatment plan around the implants-since implants cannot be moved.

3. Consultation with Specialists: It's important to have a consultation with both an orthodontist and the dentist who placed or is placing the implants. These doctors will assess the overall dental structure and determine the best course of action.

4. Timing: Orthodontic treatment may be done before or after implant placement, depending on the individual situation. It may be advantageous to wait until after orthodontic treatment so the implant fits perfectly.

5. Possible Limitations: There may be limitations on the movement of teeth adjacent to implants, as the implants are in place and do not move like natural teeth.